I spent over 15 years as a content developer and a senior film executive at studios such as MGM and Sony, and then earned a PhD in psychology from UCLA where I researched the impact of media on children. This unique background informs my perspective.
I work at the intersection of positive youth development, entertainment media and scientific research. The entertainment media that tweens and teens spend hours consuming shape their attitudes and behaviors, and as such can be an effective way to impact social learning. My hope is that the work I do addresses the critical matter of helping kids grow up healthy and safe in the 21st century. I strive not to give into the agenda of any “side” in the discussion, and instead speak to the facts while recognizing the perspective of all stakeholders (industry, parents, academics).
Currently, I work with the national non-profit Common Sense Media and am an assistant adjunct professor at UCLA; I also frequently speak to a variety of audiences as well as consult for companies. Most importantly, I am the mom of two digital teens, a boy and a girl.